Special Feature: Commencement 2013

Mikhail Baryshnikov, the world-renowned dancer -- and Northwestern parent -- delivered a passionate, and often humorous, address to the Class of 2013 focused on the power of the arts at Northwestern's 155th commencement ceremony. His advice to new graduates: "Figure out what pushes you. What is your trigger? What makes you ask big questions?" Watch his complete speech.

The Class of 2013 is ready to rock the world. Northwestern magazine has profiled 10 seniors who've made beautiful music, climbed to new heights, pioneered technology-driven journalism and sought common ground on climate change. See what these standouts are all about.

Over the years, Northwestern has had luminaries like Stephen Colbert, Barack Obama and others address graduates. Read about the collaborative process by which the University selects its annual commencement speaker.

In addition to Mikhail Baryshnikov, this year's honorary degree recipients are E.L. Doctorow, one of America’s foremost living novelists; alumnus Michael Hopkins, who has been a transformative figure in mathematics; and Elihu Katz, a pioneer in the study of mass communication.

Five high school teachers who have had a transformative effect on the lives of eight Northwestern seniors will join their former students and receive special awards during Honors Ceremony (June 20) and Commencement (June 21).